Police seize $55K worth of marijuana from Marengo couple

SANDWICH – A Marengo couple were released on their signatures from the DeKalb County Jail on Wednesday after DeKalb County Sheriff’s deputies said they found 6 pounds of marijuana valued at more than $55,000 in the couple’s car Tuesday night during a traffic stop in Sandwich.

Joseph M. Rutkowski, 34, and Miranda L. Rutkowski, 36, both of the 500 block of Third Avenue, Marengo, have been charged with possession of marijuana and possession of marijuana with intent to deliver.

Joseph Rutkowski also is charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and speeding.

Possession of the amount of marijuana they’re accused of having and accused of intending to deliver is punishable by four to 15 years in prison if convicted.

A deputy stopped a vehicle about
7:15 p.m. Tuesday at the intersection of North Latham and Third streets for allegedly driving 45 mph in a 30-mph zone, according to a news release from the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office.

While one deputy was conducting an investigation into the traffic violation, a second deputy arrived with his K-9 partner, Dallas.

The dog identified a possible scent of narcotics in the vehicle, and the deputies executed a probable cause search of the vehicle, according to the release.

During the search, the deputies found seven packages of marijuana, several items of drug paraphernalia and cannabis oil typically used in electronic cigarettes in the SUV’s rear cargo area.

Deputies seized the vehicle under the drug asset forfeiture act, according to the release. The marijuana’s estimated street value is $55,320.

Judge Philip Montgomery ordered that they be released on their signatures. They are due in court at 9 a.m. Feb. 2.